NHL Playoffs 2012: This Is Why the Rangers Are in the Conference Finals

The Rangers defeated the Capitals in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Quarterfinals on Saturday, May 12. Let's take a look at why New York has advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals this year.

First, the Rangers are built from the goaltender out. Henrik Lundqvist has become a household name over the years, and he is the finalist for the Best Goalie, Most Valuable Player and Most Valuable Player voted by the Players Association. He keeps the Rangers in the game each night, and he is consistent.

Second, the Washington Capitals and the Ottawa Senators couldn't beat the Rangers because of the the team's excellent defense. The Rangers blocked the most number of shots in the playoffs, and were one of the best in the regular season. Every forward and defenseman sacrifices his body, so scoring chances are limited.

Third, the Rangers are now in the Finals against the Devils because of the coaching philosophy led by John Tortorella. They have been a hard working team throughout the season, and they play hard on the forecheck.

In the Eastern Finals, the Rangers will have to be more careful finishing their scoring opportunities in order to beat the Devils. Martin Brodeur is experienced, and he knows how to win.

The Rangers have better defensemen that can play above 25-30 minutes a night, but the defense has to join the rush regularly to ensure the team can capitalize on it. The Devils like to keep the opponents to the outside, so it is a must to keep driving Brodeur's net.

At the end of the day, the Rangers must play their game for 60 minutes and not take a break.